“We do believe that these robberies are linked and we are working hard to find the people responsible.

“I’m urging anyone who may have witnessed any of these incidents to contact us. We are treating this as a linked series and would appeal for anyone with information to get in touch.”

Community north Superintendent Juliette Everett said: “We understand that this is a worrying trend so we are deploying additional visible resources to act as both a deterrent to the offenders and to reassure to the people of Putnoe. If you are feeling unsettled by these incidents, or if you would like advice on how to keep yourself safe, please do approach one of our PCs or PCSOs who will be more than happy to have a chat with you.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the north serious and complex investigation team at Bedfordshire Police on 101. You can also call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.